Farewell!

Ok, I had to wait for a while to write this post. First, because I wasn't officially released until Sunday, and second, I have been super emotional about it. This last Sunday I was released from serving in the Young Womens organization after 1 1/2 years. I can't begin to tell you how amazing it has been to serve in the YW in my ward. I know Laura already posted about the amazing leaders we have served with, but I have to say how grateful I am for her and her example. She showed me what it meant to truly love those you serve. Oh, and about the organization thing...well.....you have come leaps and bounds! j/k

After 1 1/2 years of the calling, I am finding it hard to just let go of the "mother hen" role I have sorta taken on with these girls. I know that I will see them every Sunday, but it just won't be the same. When Laura and I and the other leaders were first called in, we didn't have many girls that would attend on a regular basis. In fact, they would go some weeks without any girls showing up at all. Now, thanks to the amazing YW we work with, we have strong girls with even stronger testimonies. I have seen things that have made my heart break, and things that give me absolute joy! I have loved watching these girls accomplish things and be proud of themselves. I have loved watching them pick themselves up when somehow the world got the better of them. I have seen the gospel light up their countenance as they do what they are supposed to. There truly is nothing more beautiful than and YW who is worthy, and standing in the temple for baptisms. Working with the youth is most definitley the most time consuming and emotional calling I have ever had, but I will always remember it as the best! Oh, and Laura...keep kicking butt in there! You and your presidency are awesome! I will miss you guys! Now it's off to scouts!